Electronic Apparatus

The present disclosure relates to an electronic apparatus, such as an image pickup apparatus having a plurality of operation buttons.

Some image pickup apparatuses have an autofocus (AF) start button as an operation button for instructing AF. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-018382 discloses an image pickup apparatus having an AF start button disposed at a position near a release button, which is operable by the user with his thumb and instructs to start AF.

An electronic apparatus according to one aspect of the disclosure includes a first operation unit and a second operation unit each operable by a user. The first operation unit is configured to change a state of at least one switch when operated. The second operation unit is configured to change a state of a first switch according to a first operation, and a state of a second switch according to a second operation following the first operation, with an operating force greater than that of the first operation. A maximum value of the operating force for the second operation with the second operation unit is different from a maximum operating force for operating the first operation unit.

An electronic apparatus according to another aspect of the disclosure includes a first operation unit and a second operation unit each operable with fingers of a hand holding a body. At least one of the first operation unit and the second operation unit is configured to change a state of a first switch according to a first operation, change a state of a second switch according to a second operation following the first operation, with an operating force greater than that of the first operation, and increase an increase rate of an operating force for operation in a first operating range from a specific operating amount in the first operation relative to an increase rate of the operating force for operation up to the specific operating amount.

Features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. The following description of embodiments is described by way of example.

Referring now to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description will be given of embodiments according to the disclosure.

1 FIG. 101 201 101 201 101 206 102 101 101 201 201 illustrates the configuration of a camera system including a lens interchangeable type digital camera (referred to as a camera body hereinafter)as an electronic apparatus (image pickup apparatus) according to a first embodiment, and an interchangeable lensattachable to and detachable from the camera body. The interchangeable lensis attached to the camera bodyby mechanically and electrically connecting its mountto a mountof the camera body. The camera bodycan supply power to the interchangeable lensand transmit and receive a variety of instructions (commands) and data to and from the interchangeable lens.

201 202 204 205 202 202 202 203 205 203 203 201 204 205 a The interchangeable lensincludes an imaging lens, a lens switch, and a lens control unit. The imaging lensforms an optical image of an object. A focus lensincluded in the imaging lensis driven in the optical axis direction (indicated by an alternate long and short dash line in the figure) by a focus actuatorthat operates according to a drive signal from the lens control unit. The focus actuatorincludes a stepping motor, a leadscrew and a rack that convert the rotation of the stepping motor into a driving force in the optical axis direction. However, another motor such as a vibration type motor, a DC motor, and a voice coil motor (VCM) may be used for the focus actuator. The interchangeable lensincludes a lens switchthat allows the user to input a predetermined signal to the lens control unit.

101 105 202 104 105 The camera bodyincludes an image sensoras a CMOS sensor configured to photoelectrically convert (capture) an object image as an optical image formed by the imaging lens, and a shutterconfigured to control the exposure of the image sensor.

105 112 112 101 201 110 112 108 124 124 An imaging signal generated by the photoelectric conversion by the image sensoris input to a CPU. The CPUcontrols the camera bodyand the interchangeable lenswhile using a memory unit, and generates image data by performing various processing for the imaging signal. The CPUoutputs the generated image data to a display control unitand the recorder/output unit. The recorder/output unitrecords the image data into a recording medium such as a semiconductor memory, or outputs the image data to the outside via wired or wireless communication.

112 105 109 109 202 112 109 205 205 203 202 a a The CPUacquires information for AF (referred to as AF information hereinafter) from the image sensoraccording to an AF instruction, and outputs the AF information to a focus control unit. The focus control unitcalculates the drive amount of the focus lensfor AF (referred to as a focus drive amount hereinafter). The CPUtransmits a focus instruction including the focus drive amount input from the focus control unitto the lens control unit. The lens control unitcauses the focus actuatorto drive the focus lensaccording to the focus instruction. Thereby, AF is performed.

105 202 a The AF information in this embodiment is a defocus amount acquired through focus detecting pixels that perform so-called pupil division and are disposed in some or all of the plurality of pixels of the image sensor. However, the AF information may be a contrast evaluation value based on high frequency components contained in the image data. In this case, the focus lensis driven to a position where the contrast evaluation value is at its peak.

108 103 107 101 The display control unitconverts image data into display data and displays it on an electronic viewfinder (EVF) unitor a display monitorprovided on the back of the camera body. Thereby, the image can be displayed as a live-view image before imaging, or as a recorded image generated by imaging.

101 111 112 The camera bodyis provided with a plurality of switches that are operated by the user to give a variety of instructions and settings. The operation of each of these switches is detected by a switch circuit, which outputs a signal corresponding to the operated switch to the CPU.

113 106 101 201 114 111 When a power switchis turned on, it supplies power from a power sourceto each component in the camera body(and the interchangeable lens). The switchincludes, for example, an optical pointing device described later, and its operation signal is detected by the switch circuit.

101 122 123 122 123 The camera bodyincludes a release buttonas a first operation unit, and an AF start buttonas a second operation unit. Both the release buttonand the AF start buttonhave a two-step switch structure in which a switch state (e.g., turning-on state and turning-off state) is changed by a half-pressing operation (first operation), and is further changed by a fully pressing operation (second operation) following the half-pressing operation. The fully pressing operation requires a greater operating force than that of the half-pressing operation.

122 116 117 123 118 119 More specifically, when the release buttonis half-pressed from an unoperated state, a release first switch (third switch)becomes conductive and is turned on, and when the half-pressing operation turns into the fully pressing operation, a release second switch (fourth switch)becomes conductive and is turned on. When the AF start buttonis half-pressed from an unoperated state, an AF first switchbecomes conductive and is turned on, and when the half-pressing operation turns into the fully pressing operation, the AF second switchbecomes conductive and is turned on.

122 123 122 123 Operation amounts when the release buttonand the AF start buttonare half-pressed may be the same as or different from each other. Similarly, operation amounts when the release buttonand the AF start buttonare fully pressed after the half-pressing operation may be the same as or different from each other. Each of the first switch and each of the second switch may be turned on by becoming conductive as described above by the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation, or may be turned on by becoming nonconductive. In other words, the state may be switched by each of the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation.

112 116 122 117 112 116 The CPUstarts an imaging preparation operations such as AF and auto-exposure (AE) when the first release switchof the release buttonis turned on, and starts an imaging operation when the second release switchis turned on. The user can change the settings of the operation that the CPUperforms in a case where the first release switchis turned on.

112 118 116 122 112 119 The CPUstarts AF when the first AF switchis turned on. At this time, it may be set so that imaging preparation operation other than AF is started when the first release switchof the release buttonis turned on. The CPUchanges the continuous shooting speed (continuous imaging speed) when the second AF switchis turned on during continuous shooting.

123 101 122 122 123 For example, the user half-presses the AF start buttonwith his thumb at the AF start timing to cause the camera bodyto start AF, and then fully presses the release buttonat a proper timing thereafter to perform an imaging operation. Continuous shooting is performed by continuously fully pressing the release button. In a case where the user fully presses the AF start buttonduring continuous shooting, a continuous shooting speed during the fully pressing operation can be increased or decreased. More specifically, the continuous shooting speed can be temporarily increased during continuous shooting at a low speed.

123 119 123 123 123 Various functions can be assigned to the fully pressing operation of the AF start button(turning on the AF second switch), such as a function to change the imaging quality and AF-related functions such as reselecting AF stop and start timings, in addition to the function of changing the continuous shooting speed described above. The AF start may be assigned to the fully pressing operation of the AF start button, and another function may be assigned to the half-pressing operation. That is, an AF-related function may be assigned to at least one of the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation of the AF start button. Although this button is referred to as the AF start buttonhere, a function unrelated AF may be assigned to this button.

11 11 FIGS.A andB 11 FIG.A 123 123 1 5 123 Referring now to, a description will be given of settings that can be assigned to the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation of the AF start button.illustrates a list of settings for the AF start button. Five settings, from setting Sto setting S, can be assigned to the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation of the AF start button.

1 123 2 123 Setting Sassigns the light metering (photometry) and AF start operations to the half-pressing operation and NA (not available) to the fully pressing operation. The light metering and AF start operations start the AE operation and AF operation by operating the AF start button. NA is a state in which no function is activated by the operation. Setting Sassigns NA to the half-pressing operation and the light metering and AF start operations to the fully pressing operation. This setting is for users who are concerned about erroneous operation caused by the setting for performing the light metering and AF start operations when the AF start buttonis half-pressed.

3 4 5 11 FIG.B Setting Sassigns the light metering and AF start operations to the half-pressing operation, and the user-defined settings to the fully pressing operation. The user-defined settings allow the user to arbitrarily set the functions to be assigned when the user operates the button. The contents of the user-defined settings will be described later with reference to. Setting Sassigns the user-defined settings to the half-pressing operation, and the light metering and AF start operation to the fully pressing operation. Setting Sassigns the user-defined settings to both the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation.

11 FIG.B 1 2 1 illustrates an example of function assignment for user-defined settings. Function Kis an AF stop operation. The AF operation that is in progress can be stopped by operating the button. When the AF operation is not in progress, no operation occurs. This function is used, for example, to avoid undesired operations such as focusing on an obstacle that suddenly appears in a screen (image). Function Kis AE lock and AF stop operations. In addition to function K, the exposure setting at the time the button is pressed can be maintained for a predetermined time by operating the button. This function is used, for example, when a desired exposure state is to be maintained even when the exposure conditions within the screen change.

3 Function Kis a function for returning (resetting) the AF area to the center. When the AF area is at a position other than the center due to the user's settings or camera operation, the AF area can be returned to the center of the screen by operating the button. In a case where the AF area is located at the center when the button is operated, the position of the AF area is not moved. Furthermore, due to this function, the location to which the AF area is returned is not limited to the center, and the AF area can be returned to an arbitrary location by prior settings.

4 Function Kis a function for changing the AF (detecting) area. Operating the button can switch to a previously set AF area regardless of the setting before pressing the button. This function can change the size and shape of the AF area. This function can select whether to switch only while the button is pressed or to hold the switched state until the button is pressed again.

5 Function Kis a function for switching to a registered AF area. Operating the button can switch to the previously set AF area condition regardless of the setting before pressing the button. This function can arbitrarily set the position, size, and shape of the AF area. This function can also select whether to switch only while the button is pressed or to hold the switched state until the button is pressed again.

6 Function Kis execution of object detection. By operating the button, it is detected whether or not a specific object exists within the screen. The types of objects to be detected are, for example, the entire person, the face of a person, the eyes of a person, a bird, an animal other than a bird, a car, a train, and another vehicle. These objects may be specified by the user, or may be selected automatically by the camera. For birds and animals other than birds, the priority order may be set to whole, face, or eyes, and may be limited. This function can select whether detection is performed only while the button is pressed, or whether detection continues until the button is pressed again. In addition to detection, this function may include a setting to perform AF operation for the detected object.

7 Function Kis the start and stop operation of object tracking. Operating the button can change the setting to detect an object within the screen, track the detected object, and continue AF operation. This function can also include settings to limit the object tracking area within the screen, change the object tracking target, and change the priority of which object to track. This function may change the tracking characteristics of object tracking and the tracking ability to object speed changes. This function also select whether to switch only while the button is pressed, or to maintain the switched state until the button is pressed again.

8 Function Kis a function for switching between one-shot (single) AF and servo (continuous) AF. Operating the button can switch between the one-shot (single) AF operation setting that performs AF operation once and stops the lens operation after the in-focus state is obtained, and the servo (continuous) AF operation setting that continues the lens operation to focus on the object within the AF area while the AF operation is instructed. This function can also select whether the operation is performed only while the button is pressed, or to maintain the switched state until the button is pressed again.

9 Function Kis a function for performing AF operation on an object captured by user's line of sight (visual line) when the user presses the button by operating the button in a camera having a so-called line-of-sight input function that allows the selection of an AF area by line-of-sight input.

10 3 9 Function Kis a function for switching to a registered AF function. Operating the button can switch to a previously registered AF function. More specifically, the switchable AF function is a part or all of the AF-related functions described in functions Kto K, but another function may also be switchable. This function can select whether to switch only while the button is pressed or to hold the switched state until the button is pressed again.

11 Function Kis a focus preset operation. By operating the button, AF operation is performed to focus on a preset distance.

12 2 Function Kis an AE lock function. This is an operation of function Kdescribed above that does not stop AF. This function performs only the operation of maintaining the exposure setting when the button is pressed for a predetermined period.

13 Function Kis an exposure compensation operation. Operating the button can provide exposure compensation by operating a dial or lever attached to the camera. This function may change to a preset exposure correction amount or to a state where exposure compensation is not performed.

14 123 3 14 14 123 123 Function Kis a function for changing a continuous shooting speed. This function can change the continuous shooting speed to a preset continuous shooting speed while the button is pressed. For example, the AF start buttonis set as setting S, and a user-defined setting is set as function K. The continuous shooting speed during normal operation is set to 10 frames per second, and the continuous shooting speed during button operation is set to 30 frames per second with function K. Then, imaging is performed at 10 frames per second before the AF start buttonis pressed and during the half-pressing operation, and at 30 frames per second only while the AF start buttonis fully pressed. This function can select either changing the continuous shooting speed only while the button is pressed, or maintaining the change in the continuous shooting speed until the button is pressed again.

15 103 107 Function Kis a function for partially enlarging a screen. Operating the button can enlarge and display a specific part of the EVF unitor the display monitor. The enlarged part can be set, for example, to the center of the screen, the AF area, or the part of the user's line-of-sight captured by the line-of-sight input function. This function can also select either enlarging the image only while the button is pressed, or maintaining the enlarged state until the button is pressed again.

16 1 15 Function Kis a call-up function of a registered imaging function. Operating the button can call and apply a predetermined function of the camera set in advance. The predetermined function is some or all of the functions described in function Kto function K, but may be another function. This function can also select whether the functions are applied only while the button is pressed or to maintain the applied state until the button is pressed again.

1 5 1 16 123 The settings from setting Sto setting Sand the functions from function Kto function Kare examples of function settings for the AF start button, and another function not described may be set.

2 FIG.A 2 FIG.B 2 FIG.B 204 201 illustrates the appearance of the camera system viewed from an oblique front side, andillustrates the appearance of the camera system viewed from an oblique rear side. As illustrated in, the lens switchdescribed above is provided on the outer circumference surface of the interchangeable lens.

2 FIG.A 101 121 121 101 121 101 105 101 121 101 105 a b a b As illustrated in, the camera bodyhas a normal-position gripand a vertical-position gripthat protrude forward from the left part when viewed from the front side (the right part viewed from the rear side) and the bottom, respectively. The user can hold the camera bodystably at the normal position by holding the normal-position gripwith the right hand while the camera bodyis maintained at a horizontal position (with the long side of the image sensorextending horizontally). The user can hold the camera bodystably at the vertical position by holding the vertical-position gripwith the right hand while the camera bodyis maintained at a vertical position (with the long side of the image sensorextending vertically).

2 FIG.B 103 107 113 101 As illustrated in, the EVF unit, the display monitor, and power switchare located on the back of the camera body.

122 122 101 121 101 123 123 121 101 122 122 121 101 123 123 121 a a a a b b b b. The normal-position release button, which is the release button, is located on the top surface of the camera bodynear the index finger (first finger) of the user's right hand holding the normal-position grip. On the back surface of the camera body, a normal-position AF start button, which is the AF start button, is located near the thumb (second finger) of the user's right hand holding the normal-position grip. On the side surface (but on the top surface at the vertical position) of the camera body, a vertical-position release button, which is the release button, is located near the position of the index finger of the right hand holding the vertical-position grip. On the back surface of the camera body, a vertical-position AF start button, which is the AF start button, is located near the thumb of the right hand holding the vertical-position grip

3 FIG.A 3 FIG.B 4 FIG.A 4 FIG.B illustrates the appearance of the camera system at the normal position when viewed from an oblique front side and the right hand of the user.illustrates the appearance of the camera system at the vertical position when viewed from an oblique front side and the right hand of the user.illustrates the appearance of the camera system at the normal position when viewed from an oblique rear side and the right hand of the user.illustrates the appearance of the camera system at the vertical position when viewed from an oblique rear side and the right hand of the user.

3 FIG.A 3 FIG.B 122 990 990 121 101 122 121 122 990 990 121 101 122 121 a a a a a b a b b b As illustrated in, the normal-position release buttonis positioned at a position operable by the index fingerof the right handholding the normal-position grip. In a case where the camera bodyat the normal position is viewed from above, the normal-position release buttonis positioned so that it overlaps the normal-position gripprotruding forward. As illustrated in, the vertical-position release buttonis positioned at a position operable by the index fingerof the right handholding the vertical-position grip. In a case where the camera bodyat the vertical position is viewed from above, the vertical-position release buttonis positioned so that it overlaps the vertical-position gripprotruding forward.

4 4 FIGS.A andB 123 123 101 123 101 990 990 121 123 101 990 990 121 a b a b a b b b. illustrate the arrangement of the normal-position AF start buttonand the vertical-position AF start buttonon the camera bodyviewed from diagonally behind. The normal-position AF start buttonis located on the back of the camera bodyat a position operable by the thumbof the right handholding the normal-position grip. The vertical-position AF start buttonis located on the back of the camera bodyat a position operable by the thumbof the right handholding the vertical-position grip

121 121 101 990 990 101 123 123 990 990 a b c b a b b The user holds the normal-position gripor the vertical-position gripwith their middle finger, ring finger, and little finger, and holds the camera bodyso as to pinch it from the front and back by pressing the ball of the footat the root of the thumbagainst the back of the camera body. In this state, the user operates the normal-position AF start buttonor the vertical-position AF start buttonwith the thumbof the right hand.

5 5 FIGS.A andB 5 FIG.A 5 FIG.A 5 FIG.A 123 123 101 123 121 101 122 123 121 107 1 115 103 a b a a a a a illustrate the arrangement of the normal-position AF start buttonand the vertical-position AF start buttonon the camera bodyviewed from the rear side. The normal-position AF start buttonis disposed above the center in the up-down (vertical) direction of the normal-position gripin a case where the camera bodyat the normal position is viewed from the rear side as illustrated in. In other words, it is disposed closer to the normal-position release button, which is hidden in, than the center. As illustrated in, the normal-position AF start buttonmay be disposed closer to the normal-position gripthan a centerline in the left-right (horizontal) direction of the display monitor, and in area Awithin a broken line that avoids a convex portionwhere the EVF unitprotrudes to the rear side.

123 121 101 122 123 2 121 107 115 2 115 2 115 b b b b b 5 FIG.B 5 FIG.B 5 FIG.B The vertical-position AF start buttonis located above the center in the vertical direction of the vertical-position gripin a case where the camera bodyis viewed from the rear side at the vertical position as illustrated in. In other words, it is located closer to the vertical-position release button, which is hidden in, than the center. The vertical-position AF start buttonmay be located in area Awithin a broken dashed line closer to the vertical-position gripthan a centerline in the horizontal direction of the display monitor, as illustrated in. In this embodiment, there is no convex portionwithin the area A, but if the convex portionexists, the area Amay avoid the convex portion.

6 FIG.A 6 FIG.A 6 FIG.B 123 123 123 123 101 123 a b Referring now to, a description will be given of the structure of the AF start button(,) with a two-step switch structure.illustrates a section of the AF start buttonprovided on the camera body.illustrates a relationship between pressing load F (vertical axis), which is an operating force when the AF start buttonis pressed, and pressed amount L (horizontal axis), which is an operation amount.

123 123 123 123 123 123 a b a b a b The following description assumes that the normal-position AF start buttonand the vertical-position AF start buttonhave the same structure. However, the normal-position AF start buttonand the vertical-position AF start buttonmay have different structures. Even in this case, the relationships between the pressing loads and the pressed amounts of the normal-position AF start buttonand the vertical-position AF start buttonmay be nearly the same so that the user can perform imaging with as similar an operation sense as possible at the normal position and the vertical position.

6 FIG.A 123 513 514 123 513 illustrates the AF start buttonin its initial state (unoperated state) where it has not been pressed down. A ring-shaped waterproof rubbermade of silicone rubber or the like is fitted into an exterior covermade of metal or plastic, and the AF start buttonis disposed inside the waterproof rubber.

500 501 502 502 502 503 503 514 504 502 502 502 513 513 502 123 a a b a A button portionas an operation member is made by bonding together a molded button topand a button pusherwhich are molded and integrated together. The button pusheris held by inserting its button shaftinto a button engagement holein a button basefixed to an exterior coverwith a screw (not illustrated). A washeris connected to the button pushernear the button pusher portionat the tip of the button pusherto prevent it from coming off. A waterproof partof the waterproof rubberis in contact with the entire circumference of a part of the button pusherwhile being pressed, thereby securing the waterproof performance of the AF start button.

500 512 114 512 501 111 512 123 1 FIG. Inside the button portion, an optical pointing deviceis provided as the switchillustrated in. The optical pointing deviceoptically reads the finger of the user touching the button topand calculates a moving direction of the finger. A signal indicating the contact of the finger and the moving direction is detected by the switch circuitdescribed above. The optical pointing devicedoes not have to be provided on the AF start button.

508 500 508 506 507 508 506 A spring holderis disposed under the button portionas a plastic molded part. The spring holderis disposed on a base metal platemade of an aluminum or stainless steel metal plate. A switch flexible printed circuit (FPC)is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the spring holderand the base metal plate.

507 509 510 510 511 508 a b The switch FPChas a plurality of exposed metal portions (contacts) which are part of the signal pattern. These contacts are in contact with two first coil springs, two second coil springsand, and one third coil spring, which are each conductive coil springs disposed inside the spring holder.

509 507 507 507 510 510 510 510 510 507 507 510 507 507 507 118 511 507 507 507 119 a a a b a b a b b c b c d d More specifically, the two first coil springscontact two contactsprovided on the switch FPC, respectively, and are conductive. The potential of both contactsis ground. The two second coil springsandare used as a coil spring A (GND)as a first elastic member and a coil spring B (AF first switch turned on)as a second elastic member, which have different mechanical and electrical functions. The coil spring Acontacts a contactof the switch FPCand is conductive, and the coil spring Bcontacts a contactand is conductive. The potential of contactis ground, and the contactis a contact for outputting a turning-on signal of the AF first switch. A third coil springcontacts a contactof switch FPCand is conductive. The contactis a contact for outputting a turning-on signal of AF second switch.

505 508 505 509 509 510 510 511 500 a b A switch shaftmade of a conductive metal is disposed within the spring holder. The switch shaftreceives an upward biasing force from the first coil spring. The first coil spring, the second coil springsand, and the third coil springprovide a reaction force against the depression of the button portion. As this reaction force increases, the operating forces for the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation increase.

6 FIG.B 6 FIG.A 505 505 508 500 0 0 505 509 b The relationship between the pressing load F and the pressed amount L illustrated inwill be discussed. In the initial state illustrated in, the switch shaftcontacts a shaft pressing portionprovided on the ceiling of the spring holder. When the button portionreceives the pressing load from this initial state and starts to move downward, first the play between the parts is absorbed. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Faand the pressed amount L becomes La, the switch shaftstarts compressing (charging) the first coil spring.

505 509 1 1 505 510 510 510 510 507 507 507 505 118 a b a b b c c As the pressing load F increases, the switch shaftmoves downward while charging the first coil spring, and when the pressing load F becomes Fa(first operating force) and the pressed amount becomes La(first operating amount), the switch shaftcomes into contact with the second coil springsand. At this time, since the second coil springsandare in contact with the contactsand, respectively, the potential of the contactfalls to ground via the switch shaft, and as a result, a turning-on signal is output from the AF first switch.

505 509 510 510 2 2 505 511 511 507 507 505 119 a b d d As the pressing load F increases further, the switch shaftmoves downward while charging the first coil springand the second coil springs,. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Fa(second operating force) and the pressed amount L becomes La(second operating amount), the switch shaftcomes into contact with the third coil spring. At this time, because the third coil springis in contact with the contact, the potential of the contactalso falls to ground via the switch shaft, and as a result, a turning-on signal is output from the AF second switch.

505 3 In a case where the pressing load F increases thereafter, the switch shaftreaches its mechanical end at the pressed amount Laand stops.

1 2 500 1 2 123 1 2 Fapand Fapare a minimum pressing load and a maximum pressing load (maximum operating force), respectively, for the pressed amount L of the button portionto change from the pressed amount Lato the pressed amount La. The main parameters of the operating sense (feeling of pressing) of the AF start buttonare the absolute values of the minimum pressing load Fapand the maximum pressing load Fap, and the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra calculated by the following equation (1):

123 1 1 2 2 2 1 In the AF start buttonwith a two-step switch structure using a coil spring, the pressing load Fais equal to the minimum pressing load Fap, and the pressing load Fais equal to the maximum pressing load Fap. This is because, in principle, the pressing load increases as the pressed amount increases. Therefore, the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra is equal to a ratio of the maximum pressing load Fapto the minimum pressing load Fap.

7 FIG.A 7 FIG.A 7 FIG.B 122 122 122 122 101 122 a b Referring now to, a description will be given of the structure of the release button(,) with a two-step switch structure.illustrates a section of the release buttonprovided on the camera body.illustrates a relationship between the pressing load F (vertical axis), which is the operating force when the release buttonis pressed, and the pressed amount L (horizontal axis).

122 122 122 122 122 122 a b a b a b The following description assumes that the normal-position release buttonand the vertical-position release buttonhave the same structure. However, the normal-position release buttonand the vertical-position release buttonmay have different structures. Even in this case, the relationships between the pressing loads and the pressed amounts of the normal-position release buttonand the vertical-position release buttonmay be nearly the same so that the user can perform imaging with as similar an operation sense as possible at the normal position and the vertical position.

122 123 123 5 122 4 xx xx. Here, for members of the release buttonthat have a similar function to the AF start button, the last two digits of the reference numerals are the same and a description thereof will be partially omitted. For example, the members of the AF start buttonthat are designated by the reference numeralhave a similar function to the members of the release buttonthat are designated by the reference numeral

7 FIG.A 122 400 414 514 400 400 414 414 400 414 413 122 404 400 400 a a a a b illustrates the release buttonin its initial state where it has not been pressed down. A buttonis attached to an exterior cover() as an operation member. The buttonis held by inserting its button shaftinto button engagement holeprovided in the exterior cover. A gap between the button shaftand the button engagement holeis surrounded by a waterproof rubber boot. Thereby, the waterproof performance of release buttonis secured. A washeris connected to the buttonnear the button pusherat its tip to prevent it from falling off.

408 400 409 410 411 408 415 409 410 411 400 409 410 411 A spring holderis disposed below the button. A first leaf spring, a second leaf spring, and a third leaf spring, which are conductive metallic leaf springs (flat springs), are fixed to the spring holderby leaf-spring fixing screws. The first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf springprovide a reaction force against the depression of the button. As this reaction force increases, the operating forces for the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation increase. In the initial state, the first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf springare separated from each other.

407 409 410 411 407 409 410 411 407 409 407 410 407 116 411 407 117 a c d The switch FPCis sandwiched near the screwed portions of the first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf spring. In the portion of the switch FPCsandwiched between the first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf spring, contacts that are part of the signal pattern of the switch FPCare exposed, and the contacts are conductive to each leaf spring. More specifically, the first leaf springis in contact with contact, which is at ground potential, and is conductive. The second leaf springis in contact with the contactfor outputting the turning-on signal of the first release switchand is conductive. The third leaf springis in contact with the contactfor outputting the turning-on signal of the second release switchand is conductive.

7 FIG.B 7 FIG.A 409 410 411 400 0 0 400 409 409 0 413 b A description will be given of a relationship between the pressing load F and the pressed amount L illustrated in. In the initial state illustrated in, the first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf springare not in contact with each other as described above. When the buttonreceives the pressing load and starts moving downward from this point, the play between the parts is absorbed first. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Frand the pressed amount L becomes Lr, the button pushercomes in contact with the first leaf springand the first leaf springstarts deforming. The pressing load Frcorresponds to the play and friction between the parts as well as the reaction force from the waterproof rubber boot.

409 1 1 409 409 410 409 410 410 116 a As the pressing load F increases, the first leaf springdeforms while increasing its reaction force, and when the pressing load F becomes Fr(third operating force) and the pressed amount L becomes Lr(fourth operating amount), the contactat the tip of the first leaf springcomes into contact with the upper surface of the second leaf spring. When the first leaf springcomes into contact with the second leaf springand becomes conductive, the potential of the second leaf springdrops to ground. Thereby, a turning-on signal of the first release switchis output.

400 409 410 2 2 410 411 411 411 407 410 409 411 119 400 3 a d When the pressing load F further increases and the buttonis pressed down, the first leaf springand the second leaf spring, which are in contact with each other and are integrated, deform while further increasing the reaction force. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Fr(fourth operating force) and the pressed amount L becomes Lr(fourth operating amount), the bottom surface of the second leaf springcomes into contact with the contact portionof the third leaf spring. The third leaf spring, which is in contact with the contact, comes into contact with the second leaf springintegrated with the first leaf springand becomes conductive, so that the potential of the third leaf springfalls to ground, and a turning-on signal of the AF second switchis output. Thereafter, as the pressing load F increases, the buttonreaches the mechanical end at the pressed amount Lrand stops.

1 2 400 1 2 122 1 2 Frpand Frpare minimum and maximum loads for the pressed amount L of the buttonto change from Lrto Lr, respectively. The operating sense (feeling of pressing) of the release buttonis determined mainly by the absolute values of the minimum and maximum loads Frpand Frp, and a maximum-minimum load ratio Rr calculated by the following equation (2).

122 1 1 2 2 2 1 In the release buttonwith a two-step switch structure using a leaf spring, the pressing load Fris equal to the minimum pressing load Frp, and the pressing load Fris equal to the maximum pressing load Frp. This is because, in principle, the pressing load increases as the pressed amount increases, just as in the case of using a coil spring. Therefore, the maximum-minimum load ratio Rr is equal to the ratio between the maximum pressing load Frpand the minimum pressing load Frp.

122 123 121 121 122 122 122 990 123 122 122 990 990 990 3 3 4 4 FIGS.A,B,A, andB a b a b a a b b b a Next follows a description of load settings for the release buttonand the AF start button. As illustrated in, the user holds the grip (,) in his right hand and operates the release button(,) with his index fingerand the AF start button(,) with his thumb. At this time, the thumband index fingerhave the following characteristics.

The first characteristic is that the thumb is shorter than the index finger. Operation with the thumb while holding the grip is more likely to involve a pressing action with the pad of the finger or the entire finger rather than an action of bending the joint at the fingertip.

990 c The second characteristic is that the right hand holding the grip supports the camera body near the ball of the thumb. Therefore, in addition to the first characteristic, it is difficult to bend the pad of the thumb, and it is more likely to induce a pressing action with the pad of the finger or the entire finger.

122 123 The third characteristic is that it is easier to apply force with the thumb than with the index finger in a pressing-down operation. For example, a user who is engrossed in operating the camera often ends up gripping the grip tightly, and if the index finger and thumb are placed on the release buttonand AF start button, which are located on opposite sides of the camera body, the user tends to grip the grip even tighter.

122 123 123 123 122 123 Due to these three characteristics, it is more difficult to finely adjust the operating force with the thumb than with the index finger, and the operating force is also likely to be strong. As a result, the user is to generate enough force with the index finger to fully press the release button, while controlling the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation of the AF start buttonwith the thumb. Thereby, it is difficult for the user to concentrate on imaging because his attention is drawn to the operation with his thumb. There is a strong tendency for the thumb to apply stronger pressure when the user is particularly engrossed in imaging. Thus, the AF start buttonis to have a structure that allows for quick operation with the thumb while also making it easy for the user to concentrate on imaging. In other words, the operating force for operating the AF start buttonmay be greater than the operating force for operating the release button, so that the AF start buttonis less likely to be accidentally operated by the thumb when both the index finger and thumb are tense.

6 FIG.C 6 FIG.C 123 122 123 122 2 2 123 119 2 122 117 123 122 illustrates a comparison of the pressing load F (vertical axis) and pressed amount L (horizontal axis) of the AF start buttonand the release button. In, the pressing loads of the AF start buttonand the release buttonare indicated by a solid line and an alternate long and short dash line, respectively. In this embodiment, the pressing load Fa(maximum pressing load Fap) at which the AF start buttonturns on the AF second switchis greater than the pressing load Frat which the release buttonturns on the second release switch. In other words, the operating force (maximum value) for fully pressing the AF start buttonis greater than the operating force for fully pressing the release button.

6 FIG.C 6 FIG.C 123 122 1 1 2 2 1 123 118 1 122 116 1 1 In, the pressed amounts of the AF start buttonand the release buttonare illustrated as La=Lrand La=Lr, but these pressed amounts may be different. In, the pressing load Faat which the AF start buttonturns on the AF first switchis greater than the pressing load Frat which the release buttonturns on the first release switch. However, they may be the same, or Famay be smaller than Fr.

2 2 2 123 2 122 2 123 2 122 123 2 2 In this embodiment, as described above, the maximum pressing load Fapis equal to the pressing load Fa. Therefore, the fact that the maximum pressing load Fapof the AF start buttonis greater than the pressing load Frof the release buttoncan be rephrased as the load Faof the AF start buttonbeing greater than the pressing load Frof the release button. However, depending on the structure of the AF start button, there are cases where the maximum pressing load Fapdoes not match the pressing load Fa. This will be described in the second embodiment.

123 1 118 The click sense (the step feeling) from the half-pressing operation to the fully pressing operation can be achieved by setting the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra illustrated in equation (1) to a predetermined value or more. In particular, in a case where an AF start instruction is assigned to the half-pressing operation of the AF start button, the half-pressing operation tends to be performed frequently, and the half-pressing operation may continue for a long period (or may be held down). Thus, in order to facilitate frequent half-pressing operations and a continued half-pressing operation for a long period (a held-down half-pressed operation), the pressing load Fafor turning on the AF first switchmay be light.

123 123 123 2 118 119 1 1 118 On the other hand, it is necessary to prevent an erroneous operation in which the user fully presses the AF start buttonalthough he intends to half-press it. It is also necessary to prevent an erroneous full-pressing operation due to slight increases in operating force while the AF start buttonis half-pressed for a long period (or the half-pressing state of the AF start buttonis held down). Thus, the maximum pressing load Fapfrom turning-on of the AF first switchto turning-on of the AF second switchmust be sufficiently larger than the pressing load Fa(i.e., the minimum pressing load Fap) for keeping turning on of the AF first switch. In other words, the value of the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra must be greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

2 2 2 123 123 990 990 2 123 b c More specifically, it has been experimentally found that a maximum pressing load Fapof 2.0 N or more is effective in suppressing the above erroneous operations. It may be more effective if the maximum pressing load Fapis 2.5 N or more, and even more effective if it is 3.0 N or more. However, it is also known that if the maximum pressing load Fapis too large when the AF start buttonis fully pressed for a long period (or the fully pressing state of the AF start buttonis held down), the user may feel fatigue around the thumband the ball of the foot. Thus, the maximum pressing load Fapmay be set according to whether the function set to the fully pressing operation of the AF start buttonis a function that is pressed for a long period (or held down).

It has been experimentally found that a maximum-minimum load ratio Ra of 2.0 or more is effective in suppressing erroneous operation. A maximum-minimum load ratio Ra of 2.5 or more or 3.0 or more is more effective in suppressing erroneous operation.

2 123 123 Thus, by increasing the maximum pressing load Fapand the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra within the range where the AF start buttoncan be pressed down with the thumb, a good operation sense of the AF start buttoncan be achieved.

122 116 117 123 122 The relationship between the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra and the maximum-minimum load ratio Rr may be as follows. In the release button, which instructs an imaging operation by the fully pressing operation, it is necessary for the maximum-minimum load ratio Rr to be relatively large in order to prevent erroneous operations of the first release switchand the second release switch. However, in comparison with the AF start button, the release buttonis to be fully pressed as quickly as possible from the initial state or the half-pressed state. Thus, the maximum-minimum load ratio Rr may not be too high. Hence, based on the above first to third characteristics, the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra, which may be high, and the maximum-minimum load ratio Rr, which may not be too high, may satisfy the following inequality (3):

123 122 In other words, the ratio (Ra) of the maximum operating force to the minimum operating force for fully pressing the AF start buttonis greater than the ratio (Rr) of the maximum operating force to the minimum operating force for fully pressing the release button.

8 FIG.A 8 FIG.B 123 123 illustrates a section of an AF start buttonaccording to a second embodiment.illustrates a relationship between the pressing load F (vertical axis) and the pressed amount L (horizontal axis) in the AF start button.

6 5 xx xx In this embodiment, those elements, which are corresponding elements in the first embodiment, will be designated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted. Similar members will be designated by the same reference numerals with the last two digits, and a partial description thereof will be omitted. For example, the members in this embodiment given the reference numeralshave similar functions to the members given the reference numeralsin the first embodiment.

8 FIG.A 123 608 607 502 502 b illustrates the AF start buttonin the initial state in which it is not pressed down. A two-step metal dome switchmounted on a switch FPCis disposed below a button pusher portionof the button pusher.

609 610 608 611 608 609 607 607 610 607 607 607 118 611 607 607 607 119 a c c d d A first metal domeand a second metal dome, each formed into a dome shape from a conductive elastic member such as a metal plate, are disposed inside the metal dome switch. A bottom contact, which is formed by exposing a metal contact or a metal pattern, is provided at the bottom of the metal dome switch. The first metal domeis in electrical contact with a contactprovided on the switch FPC, and is at ground potential. The second metal domeis in electrical contact with a contactprovided on the switch FPC. The contactis a contact for outputting an turning-on signal for the AF first switch. The bottom contactis in electrical contact with a contactprovided on the switch FPC. The contactis a contact for outputting a turning-on signal of the AF second switch.

8 FIG.B 8 FIG.A 500 0 0 502 609 502 609 1 1 609 610 607 118 b b c A relationship between the pressing load F and the pressed amount L illustrated inwill be discussed. When the button portionis pressed from the initial state illustrated in, first the play between the parts is absorbed. Thereafter, when the pressing load F becomes Faand the pressed amount becomes La, the button pusher portioncomes into contact with the first metal dome. As the pressing load F increases, the button pusher portionmoves downward while compressing the first metal dome, and when the pressing load F becomes Fa(first operating force) and the pressed amount L becomes La(first operating amount), the first metal domecomes into contact with the second metal dome. Thereby, the potential of the contactfalls to ground, and a turning-on signal of the AF first switchis output.

500 609 610 611 2 2 607 119 d When the button portionmoves downward, the first metal domeand the second metal dome, which have come into contact with each other and are integrated, come into contact with the bottom contactas the pressing load F becomes Fa(second operating force) and the pressed amount L becomes La(second operating amount). Thereby, the potential of the contactdrops to ground, and the AF second switchoutputs a turning-on signal.

609 4 0 1 500 4 4 500 1 118 In this embodiment, the dome shape of the compressed first metal domeis inverted at a pressed amount Labetween pressed amounts Laand La. Thereby, the pressing load F for moving the button portiondownward peaks at pressing load Faat pressed amount Laand then temporarily drops. This change in pressing load F provides the user with a click sense from the start of pressing the button portionto the completion of the half-pressing operation at pressed amount La(until the AF first switchturns on).

5 1 2 610 500 5 5 2 119 5 123 At a pressed amount Lafrom the pressed amount Lato the pressed amount La, the dome shape of the compressed second metal domeis inverted. Thereby, the pressing load F for moving the button portiondownwards peaks at a pressing load Faat the pressed amount Laand then once drops. This change in the pressing load F provides the user with a click sense during a period from the half-pressing operation to the completion of the fully pressing operation at the pressed amount La(until the AF second switchturns on). The click sense generated at the pressed amount Laserves as a guide for operation when the user wishes to hold (down) the AF start buttonin a half-pressed state for a long period.

4 118 1 118 4 1 5 118 119 2 119 5 2 123 1 1 2 5 In this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the maximum value Faof the pressing load F until the AF first switchturns on does not coincide with the pressing load Fawhen the AF first switchturns on, and Fa>Fa. The maximum value Faof the pressing load F from after the AF first switchis turned on until the AF second switchis turned on does not coincide with the pressing load Fawhen the AF second switchis turned on, and Fa>Fa. In such a case, the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra, which is a parameter for the operation sense of the AF start button, is calculated as follows (4) because Fap=Faand Fap=Fain equation (1).

2 119 2 119 2 5 118 119 1 1 In this embodiment, it is important to prevent the user from unintentionally pressing the switch down to the pressed amount Laat which the AF second switchis turned on rather than the pressing load Faat which the AF second switchis turned on. That is, it is important to set the maximum pressing load Fap(Fa) from turning on of the AF first switchto turning on of the AF second switchto be properly large relative to the minimum pressing load Fap(Fa).

8 FIG.C 8 FIG.C 123 122 123 122 2 119 123 2 117 122 2 5 123 2 122 123 122 illustrates a comparison of the pressing load F (vertical axis) and pressed amount L (horizontal axis) of the AF start buttonand the release button. In, the pressing loads of the AF start buttonand the release buttonare illustrated by a solid line and an alternate long and short dash line, respectively. In this embodiment, the pressing load Faat which the AF second switchof the AF start buttonis turned on is equivalent to the pressing load Frat which the second release switchof the release buttonis turned on. However, the maximum pressing load Fap(Fa) of the AF start buttonis greater than the pressing load Frof the release button. That is, in this embodiment, the operating force for fully pressing the AF start buttonis greater than the operating force for fully pressing the release button.

8 FIG.C 8 FIG.C 123 122 1 1 2 2 1 118 123 1 116 122 1 1 In, the pressed amounts of the AF start buttonand the release buttonare illustrated as La=Lrand La=Lr, respectively, but these pressed amounts may be different. In, the pressing load Faat which the AF first switchof the AF start buttonis turned on is greater than the pressing load Frat which the first release switchof the release buttonis turned on. However, they may be the same, or Famay be smaller than Fr.

2 The maximum pressing load Fapand the maximum-minimum load ratio Ra in this embodiment may have the same values as those in the first embodiment.

9 FIG.A 9 FIG.B 123 123 123 illustrates a section of a part of an AF start buttonaccording to a third embodiment.illustrates a relationship between the pressing load F (vertical axis) and the pressed amount L (horizontal axis) in the AF start button. Those elements in this embodiment, which are corresponding elements in the AF start buttonaccording to the first embodiment, will be designated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

9 FIG.A 123 508 506 500 507 508 506 507 509 507 507 510 510 507 511 a b c a b d illustrates the AF start buttonin the initial state in which no pressing operation has been performed. A spring holderis provided and disposed on a base metal platebelow the button portion. A switch FPCis disposed so as to be sandwiched between the spring holderand the base metal plate, and has a plurality of contacts. Of the plurality of contacts, two contactscontact two first coil springs, contactsandcontact second coil springsand, respectively, and contactcontacts a third coil spring.

505 508 509 A switch shaft, which is disposed within the spring holder, receives an upward biasing force from the first coil spring.

508 510 510 505 500 510 510 505 511 500 505 510 510 511 a b a b a b In this embodiment, within the spring holder, the upper end of the second coil springis disposed at a higher position than the upper end of second coil spring. Thereby, when switch shaftmoves downward by pressing down button portion, it first comes into contact with second coil spring (coil spring A (GND)), and then comes into contact with second coil spring (coil spring B (AF first switch turned on)). Then, having moved further downward, the switch shaftcomes into contact with the third coil spring. In other words, by pressing down button portion, the switch shaftcomes into contact with the second coil spring (coil spring A), the second coil spring (coil spring B), and the third coil springin this order to charge them. Thereby, the operating forces for the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation increase along with an increase in the reaction force from each coil spring.

510 510 510 511 500 a b b In this embodiment, the height difference AA between the second coil springand the second coil springis set to be smaller than the height difference BB between the second coil spring Band the third coil spring. In other words, AA<BB. Thereby, as will be described in detail later, it is possible to change the operation sense without increasing the click step when the button portionis pressed down.

9 FIG.B 9 FIG.A 505 505 508 500 0 0 505 509 b A relationship between the pressing load F and the pressed amount L illustrated inwill be discussed. In the initial state illustrated in, the switch shaftcontacts the shaft pressing portionprovided on the ceiling of the spring holder. When the button portionmoves downward from this initial state under the pressing load, first the play between the parts is absorbed. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Faand the pressed amount L becomes La, the switch shaftstarts charging the first coil spring.

505 509 1 1 505 510 1 1 505 510 510 510 507 507 507 505 118 a b a b b c c As the pressing load F increases, the switch shaftmoves downward while charging the first coil spring. Then, when the pressing load F becomes Fa′ and the pressed amount L becomes La′, the switch shaftcomes into contact with the second coil spring (coil spring A). From here, the pressing load F becomes Faand the pressed amount L becomes La, so the switch shaft, which has moved downward by the difference AA, comes into contact with the second coil spring (coil spring B). At this time, since the second coil springsandare in contact with the contactsand, respectively, the potential of the contactfalls to ground via the switch shaft, and as a result, the turning-on signal of the AF first switchis output.

505 510 510 1 1 a b This embodiment provides the difference AA between the pressed amounts (i.e., the timings) at which the switch shaftcontacts the second coil springand the second coil spring. As a result, the increase rate in the operating force for operation in the first operating range (AA) from the specific operating amount (La′) in the half-pressing operation to the completion of the half-pressing operation can be increased relative to the increase rate in the operating force for operation up to the specific operating amount. This configuration can provide the user with an operation sense in which the force for the pressing operation changes twice in the short stroke from the start of the pressing operation to the completion of the half-pressing operation (pressed amount La), and the user can easily stop the pressing operation at the position where the half-pressing operation is completed. In other words, this configuration can suppress the user's unintentional pressing operation (fully pressing operation) beyond the position where the half-pressing operation is completed.

505 509 510 510 2 2 505 511 507 511 505 119 a b d As the pressing load F further increases, the switch shaftmoves downward while charging the first coil springand the second coil springsand. Then, the pressing load F becomes Faand the pressed amount L becomes La, so that the switch shaft, which has moved downward by the difference BB, comes into contact with the third coil spring. Thereby, the potential of the contactwith which the third coil springis in contact falls to ground via the switch shaft, and the turning-on signal of the AF second switchis output.

1 1 510 510 1 2 510 511 500 a b b A pressed amount from the pressed amount La′ to the pressed amount Lacorresponds to the difference AA in height between the second coil springand the second coil spring. A pressed amount from the pressed amount Lato the pressed amount Lacorresponds to the difference BB in height between the second coil springand the third coil spring. As described above, the difference AA is smaller than the difference BB. That is, the first operating range (AA) in the half-pressing operation is narrower than the full operating range (second operating range: BB) in the fully pressing operation. Thereby, the operation sense can be changed without increasing the click step when the button portionis pressed down.

505 3 Thereafter, as the pressing load F increases, the switch shaftreaches its mechanical end and stops at the pressed amount La.

10 FIG. 7 FIG.A 122 illustrates a schematic diagram of a variation of the release buttonillustrated inof the first embodiment. Those elements in this variation, which are corresponding elements in the first embodiment, will be designated by the same reference numerals, and a description thereof will be omitted.

408 400 409 410 411 408 415 409 410 411 The spring holderis disposed under the button. A first leaf spring, a second leaf spring, and a third leaf springare fixed to the spring holderby leaf-spring fixing screws. The first leaf spring, the second leaf spring, and the third leaf springare separated from each other in the initial state. In the initial state, they are separated from each other.

410 410 410 400 409 409 410 410 400 409 410 411 400 409 410 410 410 410 411 a b a b a b In this variation, the tip side portion of the second leaf springis separated into leaf spring Aas the first elastic member and leaf spring Bas the second elastic member. When the buttonis pressed down to deform the first leaf springdownward, the first leaf springfirst comes into contact with leaf spring Aand then comes into contact with leaf spring B. When the buttonis pressed down further, the integrated first leaf springand second leaf springcome into contact with the third leaf spring. In this way, by pressing the button, the first leaf springcontacts the leaf spring Aof the second leaf spring, the leaf spring Bof the second leaf spring, and the third leaf springin this order to charge them. Thereby, the operating forces for the half-pressing operation and the fully pressing operation increase as the reaction force from each leaf spring increases.

410 410 410 410 411 122 a b b 9 FIG.B In the second leaf spring, the height difference AA between the leaf spring Aand the leaf spring Bis smaller than the height difference BB between the leaf spring Band the third leaf spring. In other words, AA<BB. Thereby, the operation sense can be changed similarly to, without increasing the click step when the release buttonis pressed down.

123 The structure of the AF start buttondescribed in each embodiment is merely an example, and any structure is acceptable as long as it is possible to switch between a plurality of switch states by pressing the button down. The number of steps is not limited to two, but may be three or more. In the above embodiments, the operating force is set using the reaction force of a spring, but the operating force may be set using a force other than the spring reaction force, such as a magnetic force. The switch may be a pressure-sensitive switch whose state changes between a plurality of steps according to the operating force (pressure), rather than a push-down switch as in the embodiments.

122 In the above embodiments, the release buttonas the first operation unit has a two-step switch structure, but the first operation unit may have a one-step switch structure instead of a two-step switch structure.

In the above embodiments, the release button and AF start switch are provided on the body of the lens interchangeable type camera, but these switches may be provided on a lens integrated type camera. The first operation unit and the second operation unit may be provided on an electronic apparatus other than a camera (especially one having an image sensor).

In the above embodiment, two operation unit are operable with the index finger and thumb, but the operating forces of two operation units operable with two fingers (first finger and second finger) other than the combination of the index finger and thumb may also be set as in the embodiment.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Each embodiment can provide an electronic apparatus in which the maximum operating force for operating a first operation unit and the maximum operating force for operating a second operation unit are different from each other.

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-103482, which was filed on Jun. 27, 2024, and which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.